Still stumped? Try these ideas for gift buckets

Great Gift Bucket Ideas

by Shaunna Privratsky

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My family loves ice cream. We go through a few gallons of the sweet stuff every month. The most economical way to purchase it is in big gallon buckets for less than $5. Once a pail was emptied, I didn't have the heart to throw it away. So I washed the buckets and lids and stored them in the garage, knowing that eventually I would find a use for them.

With the holidays looming, I found the perfect use for my growing stack of empty pails. I decided to make gift buckets instead of gift baskets! The airtight lid assures freshness and protects the contents during shipping. Here are some sweet themes I created for my gift buckets this year.

A s'mores party - Who needs a campfire? Include a pack of graham crackers, a bag of large marshmallows and a bag of mini chocolate bars. No one can resist having some more!

Game day bucket - Provide an assortment of popcorn, chips, beef jerky and a can of mixed nuts for those sports nuts.

Sweet tooth - Put in an assortment of home-baked or store-bought cookies and candy.

Welcome to the world - Place baby gifts in abundance in your baby bucket. Bibs, onesies, soft toys, teething rings, bottles, picture frames and more will delight the baby and the parents.

Coffee shop - Stuff with lots of enticing samples like fancy or exotic brands, gourmet blends or tasty favorites. Add a jar of instant creamer and a fancy stir stick or antique spoon. You could even include a mug! I find tons in thrift stores and garage sales for a unique and inexpensive gift.

It is fun and easy to decorate your gift buckets as well. Simply measure and cut a wide strip of fabric, wallpaper or craft paper to fit the sides of the bucket. You can use pinking shears for a no-sew edge or trim with lace, beads, feathers or other fanciful trim. Hot glue works very well for attaching the pieces.

You can use a holiday theme or match the contents of your bucket. For example, the baby gift bucket could be decorated with pretty pastels or bright primary colors in a bold pattern. Sports fans will warm up to a bucket in faux-football leather or textured basketball orange. Use your imagination and decorating your gift buckets will be a blast.

Next time you enjoy the last scoop of ice cream, don't toss the bucket. You have the makings of great gift buckets.

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